The University of Providence in Great Falls, Montana, is set to introduce the Providencia Day of Service on August 19. This new event marks the beginning of the academic year and pays tribute to Sister Providencia Tolan, a former sociology faculty member known for her advocacy for Native Americans and marginalized groups. Sister Providencia helped establish service learning as a key part of the university’s mission.
All incoming students will gather before participating in community service projects across nine sites in Great Falls. Faculty and staff will join them as they engage with local organizations such as Fresh Rescue Kitchen, Grace Home, Vincent de Paul Thrift Store and Food Bank, Angel Room, Grace Haven, Harbor House, and Mercy Home. Activities include preparing meals for the homeless, organizing warehouses, cleaning transitional housing facilities for veterans and their families, and landscaping.
A.J. Hoy, Vice President for Mission Integration and Student Life at UP, stated: “Launching the Providencia Day of Service is our way of ensuring that, from day one, our students experience the deep connection between education and service. Sister Providencia Tolan lived this commitment, seeing the dignity in every person and working for justice with compassion. This day invites our newest students to carry forward that legacy.”
The initiative aims to help first-year students build connections with peers and faculty while grounding them in values such as Integrity, Dignity, Justice, Compassion, and Excellence.
Founded in 1932 by the Sisters of Providence as a private Roman Catholic liberal arts institution University of Providence continues its mission-driven approach by offering undergraduate and graduate programs focused on liberal arts and health disciplines.
